Methods for joining and aligning bipolar plates

The method addresses sealing and welding challenges in bipolar plates by combining machining and joining tools to improve flatness and reduce distortions, facilitating easier processing and reducing the need for separate straightening stations.

DE102025110301A1Pending Publication Date: 2026-01-22ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
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Patent Information

Application Number
DE102025110301
Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-07-17
Filing Date
2025-03-18
Publication Date
2026-01-22

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Current methods for sealing bipolar plates in fuel cells rely solely on sealing materials, which degrade over time, and welding processes like laser welding demand high flatness, complicating the manufacturing process and risking leaks.

Method used

A method combining machining and joining tools to straighten and create electrical contacts on bipolar plates using resistance welding, minimizing distortions and improving flatness by plastic deformation in edge regions.

Benefits of technology

This method enhances bipolar plate flatness, reduces manufacturing complexity, and minimizes distortions, facilitating easier processing and reducing the need for separate straightening stations.

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Abstract

The invention relates to a method for processing and joining bipolar plates (10) which are provided with sealing seams (56) for sealing between an active area (14) and media ports (18, 20, 22, 24, 26). At least the following process steps are carried out: In process step a), a warped bipolar plate (10, 54) is provided in a processing and joining station (28); in process step b), processing tools (34, 38) and joining tools (31) are positioned against the warped bipolar plate (10, 54) such that the joining tools (31) exert a holding and joining force (64) on the warped bipolar plate (10, 54). According to process step c), the machining tools (34, 38) contact the distorted bipolar plate (10, 54) and produce a plastic deformation (68) of the distorted bipolar plate (10, 54) by means of a straightening force (62).Subsequently, in process step d), a material-bonded electrical contact (82) is created on one side of the previously straightened bipolar plate (10, 84). Following process step e), the processing and joining station (28) is opened (78, 80) and the joined and straightened bipolar plate (10, 84) is removed.
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Citation Information

Patent Citations

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    DE102023207581A1

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